Dear 3rd Grade Athletes and Families,
Modified Flag Football, also known as Modified Tackle Football (MTF), is a program offered by New Canaan Youth Football (NCYF), which has been developing young athletes for over 25 years. Our program emphasizes safety, good sportsmanship, youth development, and friendship—values that have earned NCYF the title of “Best Sportsmen in Fairfield County” three years in a row.
What Makes NCYF Special?
- NCYF is the only sport in town where teams are evenly balanced, fostering competition and camaraderie. It’s the most inclusive sport, where lifelong friendships are built, and everyone is part of our football family.
- NCYF believes in long-term youth development and like other sports, such as hockey or
Lacrosse, and in conjunction with the Town of New Canaan and the New Canaan High School (“NCHS”), we offer football game modifications and levels of progression, because we recognize it’s important to provide football options for athlete development:
- Flag Football: 2nd–9th grade
- Modified Flag/Tackle Football (MTF): 3rd–4th grade
- Tackle Football: 4th–12th grade
Players can choose any combination of these options. For those considering tackle football but not quite ready, MTF serves as the perfect bridge between flag and tackle football.
What is MTF?
MTF is a 9-player (vs. 11 player,) no-tackle version of football played on a smaller field. Players wear full equipment (helmet, shoulder pads, and football pants) but use flag belts—tackles are made by pulling flags, not by physical contact/NO TACKLING.
While there’s no tackling, MTF introduces pads, blocking techniques, ball handling, and other essential football skills in a safe, developmental environment. It helps players prepare for tackle football if they choose to take that step.
Key Features of MTF:
- Plays in the Fairfield County Football League (FCFL) with weekly games against other towns.
- Real-game experience with jerseys, referees, fans, and stadium-based excitement.
- Flexible schedule—players can also participate in other sports like flag football, soccer, or Fall lacrosse.
- MTF follows a “right-age, right-stage” approach, allowing players to progress at their own pace with parental and coach approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do MTF players wear full equipment (pads) if there’s no tackling?
Pads provide safety during flag-pulling and blocking. MTF has less contact than hockey or lacrosse but prepares players for potential future tackle football.
Will MTF compete against other towns?
Yes! The FCFL offers inter-town play at the 3rd & 4th grade level.
Can my child play up or down?
- 3rd graders typically play in their grade level but may play up in rare cases with parental and coach approval.
- 4th graders can choose between MTF or tackle football based on their readiness.
Safety First
- Strict contact rules, weight limits, and modified game play (e.g., no kick-offs or punts).
- Top-quality protective equipment—well-maintained and properly fitted.
- Certified professional trainers at every practice and game—no other sport offers this!
- Trained, certified coaches. Unlike flag football, MTF Coaches undergo rigorous training, including USA Football basic certification, concussion, CPR, heat stroke, and abuse training and must pass background checks. Many youth football coaches train under other experienced youth football coaches for years before becoming Head Coach themselves and voluntarily take additional training online and with the NCHS varsity coaches.
- Professional referees enforcing fair play and safety rules.
Friendship & Community
Football creates stronger bonds than any other sport—players train, compete, and celebrate together. NCYF fosters an inclusive environment with no team rankings (no A, B, or C teams), allowing every player to develop at their own pace. Parents are actively involved, making it a true family experience.
Multi-Sport Encouragement
Unlike other sports that push year-round specialization, football encourages multi-sport participation to develop well-rounded athletes and prevent overuse injuries. Most varsity football players are multi-sport athletes! Kids need a break from the same sport; lacrosse, baseball and hockey have turned into 12-month endeavors. Not football, its a three-month season!
NCYF provides progressive football options starting in 2nd grade, ensuring our young athletes—especially 3rd and 4th graders—develop safely, confidently, and successfully through our core tenants of SAFETY, DEVELOPMENT, FUN, and CHARACTER
Come join us and experience New Canaan Youth Football!
If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to Abe Kane @ 401-368-9627.
Abe Kane Mike Regan
Co-Director, Co-Director,
Coaching and Player Development Coaching and Player Development
[email protected] [email protected]